City/science intersections: A scoping review of science for policy in urban contexts

Abstract Science is essential for cities to understand and intervene on the increasing global risks. However, challenges in effectively utilizing scientific knowledge in decision-making processes limit cities’ abilities to address these risks. This scoping review examines the development of science for urban policy, exploring the contextual factors, organizational structures, and mechanisms that facilitate or hinder…

An evaluation framework for institutional capacity of science-for-policy ecosystems in EU Member States

Abstract: This report sets out an evaluation framework to assess the institutional capacity of science-for-policy ecosystems across EU Member States. The report is of interest to practitioners and expert evaluators who want to assess how different organisations and actors provide and transmit knowledge individually and jointly to support evidence-informed policymaking. Using this evaluation framework will…

AI tools as science policy advisers? The potential and the pitfalls

Large language models and other artificial-intelligence systems could be excellent at synthesizing scientific evidence for policymakers — but only with appropriate safeguards and humans in the loop. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have stoked febrile commentary around large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT and others, that can generate text in response to typed…

What works to promote research-policy engagement?

Authors: Kathryn Oliver, Anna Hopkins, Annette Boaz, Shannon Guillot-Wright, Paul Cairney Background: To improve the use of evidence in policy and practice, many organisations and individuals seek to promote research-policy engagement activities, but little is known about what works. Aims and objectives: We sought (a) to identify existing research-policy engagement activities, and (b) evidence on…

Assessing national institutional capacity for evidence-informed policymaking: the role of a science-for-policy system – Kathryn Oliver 2022

This report sets out a conceptual map for potential elements of a science-for-policy advisory ecosystem. The aim of this map is not to propose an ideal system, but rather to highlight how elements need to connect with each other at multiple levels; to allow us to ask how all involved in evidence production, mobilisation and…

The dos and don’ts of influencing policy: A systematic review of advice to academies – Oliver, Cairney 2019

ABSTRACT: Many academics have strong incentives to influence policymaking, but may not know where to start. We searched systematically for, and synthesised, the ‘how to’ advice in the academic peer-reviewed and grey literatures. We condense this advice into eight main recommendations: (1) Do high quality research; (2) make your research relevant and readable; (3) understand…

Science Diplomacy and Future Worlds – Colglazier 2018

Over the past decade, the use of scientific expertise to advance diplomacy has achieved a number of successes in furthering peace, security, and prosperity. Yet there have also been reversals in important areas that until recently had seen progress. Reviewing developments in arms control, poverty reduction, global health, science and innovation policy, climate change, sustainable…

The role of evidence and expertise in policy-making: The politics and practice of science advice – Gluckman 2018

Abstract: What is the role of the institution of science in a world where trust is declining? How do we ensure respect for scientifically derived knowledge in this environment, and particularly for policymaking? How do we ensure that policymakers are more likely to take into account the role of scientifically derived evidence in their decision-making?…

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